Holy Cross opens doors for Welcome Sunday

The history of Church of the Holy Cross in Stateburg can be seen in its cemetery where headstones honoring soldiers of the American Revolution have been preserved through the centuries and inside the sanctuary which features striking historical designs.

To share its history with the community, Church of the Holy Cross' congregation invites the public to attend a service at 10 a.m. on Sunday in the sanctuary which is described as a miniature Gothic cathedral with intricate carvings, exposed overhead beams and stained glass windows.

High in the tower, the bell that was placed circa 1956 will toll, marking the beginning of the service.

When you enter the sanctuary, be sure to come far enough down the aisle to see St. Michael standing on the face of a slain demon, St. George standing atop a slain dragon, and look carefully at the faces of Christ, Peter and Paul in the stained glass behind the altar.

This Anglican Church, steeped in antiquity and full of new life, has a service mixed with ancient and contemporary lessons, prayers and praises.

Communion is practiced every Sunday while the choir sings hymns of reverence and praise.

The service guide is as user-friendly as any you will ever find with clear prompts for each response. Following the service, in the margins you can read the "why and wherefore" of the different aspects of the service.

The congregation is active in outreach, fellowship and teaching, and parishioners take turns welcoming friends and guests with home-made foods for a relaxed informal gathering after the church service.

Come as you are and visit Holy Cross at 335 N. Kings Highway at 10 a.m. this Sunday.

For additional information, direct questions to (803) 305-8780.